One of the most comprehensive and rare collections of original 1970s Star Wars toys is set to go under the hammer this week.

Eastern Daily Press: Star Wars items for auctionStar Wars items for auction (Image: Archant)

The sale of the film memorabilia, including 84 action figures, 13 model spaceships and Star Wars-themed comics and magazines will be happening at Keys Fine Art Auctioneers in Aylsham tomorrow.

A total of 20 lots are on offer, with estimates for individual lots ranging from £30 to £150.

Experts estimate the entire collection could be worth more than £1,600.

Auctioneer Paul Goodley said: 'Despite the fact that there is lots of Star Wars-related memorabilia out there, it is very rare to see such a big collection dating from the time of the original films, in such good condition, and with their original backing cards.

'Sci-fi memorabilia is always popular, and items connected with the first Star Wars films are the holy grail for sci-fi enthusiasts. We have already seen considerable interest from collectors around the UK, and we are expecting brisk bidding at the sale.'

The collection dates from the mid-to-late 1970s, when the first series of films was released.

Action figures and models up for auction were made by Kenner and Pallitoy, who held the first licenses to produce Star Wars memorabilia.

Almost all come with their original packaging or backing cards.

The first Star Wars film was released in May 1977, the second film, The Empire Strikes Back, was released in May 1980 and the third, Return of the Jedi, was released May 1983. The film franchise is the most successful in the history of cinema, having grossed over $4.3billion at the cinema.

Keys' two-day antiques and collectors sale takes place tomorrow and Wednesday at the Aylsham salerooms.

Bidding starts at 10.30am on each day and people can view the items today from 9am-7.30pm and from 8.30am on sale days.

The Star Wars memorabilia will be put up for auction on the first day of the sale.